The ligament balance as well as the alignment is essential for successful total knee arthroplasty (TKA). However it is usually assessed and adjusted only at 0? and 90?. In order to evaluate the ligament balance at the other angles we have used a navigation system. Twenty-one patients underwent posterior stabilised mobile bearing TKA using a CT-based navigation system were included in this study. Immediately post-operation and still under anaesthesia, varus and valgus stresses were applied on operated knees manually at 0?, 30?, 60?, 90? and 120?. The ligament balance was calculated based on the angles under varus and valgus stress displayed on the navigation screen, presenting a relationship between the femoral and tibial cutting planes. The mean ligament balance angle at 0?, 30?, 60?, 90? and 120? were −2? ± 3.6?, −5.8? ± 7.9?, 5.0? ± 6.9?, −1.3? ± 5.4?, 7.9? ± 7.2?, respectively. At 0? and 90? balance was well adjusted, however in the other angles, it was quite varied. At 30? and 120?, the lateral side was loose, on the other hand, medial side was looser at 60? knee flexion angle. The good balance at 0? and 90? is understandable because the balance is assessed and adjusted in these angles. Regarding the other angles, the 30? and 120? results corresponded with previous studies; however, the 60? results did not correlate. Although the reason is unknown, it must be aware the mid-flexion and deep flexion instability is quite common. Further investigations about the impact on clinical outcomes of such instabilities and how to adjust them if they are critical are needed.

The optimal timing of when to perform manipulation under anesthesia (MUA) for stiffness following total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is unclear. This study aimed to identify the risk factors for MUA following primary TKA and whether performing an “early” MUA within 3 months results in a greater improvement in range of motion. Primary TKAs performed between January 2013 and December 2018 at three tertiary New Zealand hospitals were reviewed. International Classification of Diseases discharge coding was used to identify patients who underwent an MUA. Multivariate Cox regression was performed to identify patient and surgical risk factors for MUA. Pre- and post-MUA knee flexion angles were identified through manual review of operation notes. Multivariate linear regression was performed to compare the mean flexion angles pre- and post-MUA, as well as the mean gain in flexion, between patients undergoing “early” (<3 months) versus “late” MUA (>3 months). 7386 primary TKAs were analyzed in which 131 underwent subsequent MUA (1.8%). Patients aged <65 years were two times more likely to undergo MUA compared to patients aged ≥65 years (2.5% versus 1.3%, adjusted hazard ratio = 2.1, p<0.001). Gender, body mass index, patient comorbidities or a history of cancer were not associated with the risk of MUA. There was no difference in the final post-MUA flexion angle between patients who underwent early versus late MUA (104.7 versus 104.1 degrees, p = 0.819). However, patients who underwent early MUA had poorer pre-MUA flexion (72.3 versus 79.6 degrees, p = 0.012), and subsequently had a greater overall gain in flexion compared to patients who underwent late MUA (mean gain 33.1 versus 24.3 degrees, p<0.001). Younger age was the only patient risk factor for MUA. A greater overall gain in flexion was achieved in patients who underwent early MUA within 3 months

Previous studies have identified the anterolateral complex (ALC) as having an important role in controlling anterolateral rotatory laxity following anterior cruciate ligament injury and subsequent reconstruction. In particular, injury to the iliotibial band (ITB) and its component deep (dITB) and capsulo-osseous (coITB) layers, have been shown to significantly correlate with different grades of the pivot-shift test in patients with acute ACL injuries. However, the kinematic properties of the capsulo-osseous layer of the ITB, throughout knee range of motion, are not fully understood. The purpose of this study was to quantify the kinematic behaviour of the capsulo-osseous layer of the ITB through various degrees of knee flexion. Ten fresh-frozen cadaveric knee specimens were dissected to expose the capsulo-osseous layer of the iliotibial band. Radiopaque beads were embedded, at standardized increments (12.5%, 25%, 50% and 75% of total length from proximal to distal), into the tissue and fluoroscopic images were taken from 0o to 105o of knee flexion in 15° increments. The positions of the beads were identified in each image and the length, width, and area changes of the capsulo-osseous layer were calculated. Comparisons of the total length of the anterior and posterior borders of the coITB through knee ROM were conducted using a two-way (8 knee angles by 2 borders) repeated measures analysis of variance (rm-ANOVA), whereas the effect of knee angle on isometry and total area changes was assessed using one-way rm-ANOVAs (α=0.05). There was a significant increase in the length of the anterior capsulo-osseous layer at flexion angles greater than 15o and on the posterior border at angles greater than 75 o with changes occurring primarily at 12.5 % of the total length. In addition, at all flexion angles the length changes were significantly larger in the anterior border compared to the posterior border. Meanwhile, non-homogenous decreases in width and area were found with increasing flexion angle. The distance between the capsulo-osseous layer insertion on the distal femur and proximal tibia significantly increased from 60o-105o, maximal changes occurred at 105o (9.64 [4.12] %, p = 0.003). The primary finding of this study was that the coITB behaved in a non-isometric fashion, with significant increases in length occurring at flexion angles greater than 15o. Moreover, these changes in length were non-homogenous across the different regions of the coITB that were investigated, with the greatest changes occurring in the proximal segments (0–25%). The data presented here suggest that coITB in flexion angles from 0o to 105o behaves in a non-isometric fashion, with the majority of its length change occurring in its proximal segment. Further quantification of the pathway that the coITB takes with respect to osseous landmarks may result in improvements in ALC procedures as an augmentation to ACL reconstruction, thereby potentially improving rotational stability and clinical outcomes

Although the pre- or intraoperative flexion angle in TKA has been commonly considered as a predictor of the postoperative flexion angle, patients with well flexion intraoperatively cannot necessarily obtain deep flexion angle postoperatively. The reason why inconsistencies remains has been unsolved. The intraoperative compressive force between femoral and tibial components has the advantage of the sequential changes during knee motion. However, the relationship between the compressive force and the postoperative ROM has not yet been clarified. We aimed to evaluate the intraoperative femorotibial compressive force during passive knee motion, and determine the relationship between the compressive force and the postoperative flexion angle. A total of 11 knees in 10 patients who underwent primary cruciate-retaining (CR) TKA (The FINE Total Knee System; Teijin Nakashima Medical Co., Ltd., Okayama, Japan) for osteoarthritis were studied retrospectively, with a mean age of 76 years via a measured resection technique. We developed a customized measurement device mimicking the tibial component with this platform of six load sensors arranged in two rows (medial and lateral) by three tandem sets (anterior, center and posterior): anteromedial (AM), anterolateral (AL); centromedial (CM), centrolateral (CL); and posteromedial (PM), posterolateral compartment (PL) (Fig. 1). At the step of the implant trial, this device was placed on the tibia with compressive force recorded three times, while the knee was subsequently taken from 0° to full flexion manually in 15 seconds with the flexion angle of the knee recorded simultaneously by using an electric goniometer (Fig. 2). Eligibility were evaluated for ROM using a long-armed goniometer preoperatively and at 6 months postoperatively. A p value of < 0.05 was considered significant. The mean compressive force at AM, AL, CM, CL, PM and PL was 0.7, 0.5, 1.3, 1.2, 3.4 and 2.6 kgf, with the peak force of 4.2, 2.5, 4.1, 2.5, 7.3 and 4.7 kgf, respectively. The mean pre- and postoperative extension and flexion angles were −11° and −6°; and 115° and 113°, respectively. There were no significant correlations between the mean force in any region of interest (AM to PL) and the postoperative flexion angle. The peak force in PM showed little correlation with the postoperative flexion angle (r = −0.17, p = 0.54), however, that in PL was strongly negatively correlated with the postoperative flexion (r = −0.86, p < 0.01). The current results suggest the presence of less force on the lateral side in flexion. We speculate that lower compressive force at the lateral side is essential for deep flexion as it has been reported that the lateral structure has more laxity than the medial side during flexion in healthy knees. Measurement between the femoral and tibial compressive force can contribute an achievement of more flexion angle following CR-TKA

Introduction. Joint kinematics following total knee replacement (TKR) is important as it affects joint loading, joint functionality, implant wear and ultimately patient comfort and satisfaction. It is believed that restoring the natural motion of the joint (such as the screw-home mechanism) with a medial pivot knee implant will improve clinical outcomes. Daily activities such as stair climbing and stair descent are among the most difficult tasks for these patients. This study analysed dynamic knee joint motion after implantation of a medial pivot knee implant using fluoroscopy during stair ascent and descent activity. Methods. Ethics approval was granted by Macquarie University to undertake fluoroscopic testing. Four patients who had undergone a TKR were asked to participate in the study. All patients were operated by a single surgeon (JS) and were implanted with a medial pivot knee prosthesis (Sphere, Medacta International). Participants were tested at the 12 month post-operative time- point. Participants were asked to step up or down a short stair-case at a comfortable self-selected speed. Fluroscopic images were taken using a flat panel Artis Zeego (Siemens Healthcare GmbH, Erlangen) angiography system during the dynamic activity. Images were processed using Joint Track Auto (Banks, University of Florida), whereby the specific femoral and tibial component CAD files were superimposed onto the fluoroscopic images, ensuring an optimised match to the outlined components. Joint kinematics were calculated using custom written code in Matlab 2017a. Results. The average maximum flexion angle during stair ascent was 64° at the time when the foot had touched the step. The average minimum flexion angle during this activity was 7.9°. On average, the tibia externally rotated relative to the femur by 3.6° as the knee extended. During stair descent the average flexion angle changed from a minimum of 4.3° of flexion to a maximum of 29.3° of flexion. The average change in internal rotation between 10° flexion and 25° flexion was 1.05°. Conclusion. The stair ascent activity showed the joint to undergo the natural screw-home mechanism motion; experiencing 4° of internal rotation over a 57° flexion angle range. The stair descent activity exhibited a lower level of internal- external rotation. This may be due to a smaller flexion angle range during this activity as well other mechanisms such as motion adaptation of the patient when descending stairs, not related to implant design

Introduction. Pre-clinical assessment of total knee replacements (TKR) can provide useful information about the constraint provided by an implant, and therefore help the surgeon decide the most appropriate configurations. For example, increasing the posterior tibial slope is believed to delay impingement in deep flexion and thus increase the maximal flexion angle of the knee, however it is unclear what effect this has on anterior-posterior (AP) constraint. The current ASTM standard (F1223) for determining constraint gives little guidance on important factors such as medial- lateral (M:L) loading distribution, flexion angle or coupled secondary motions. Therefore, the aim of the study was to assess the sensitivity of the ASTM standard to these variations, and investigate how increasing the posterior tibial slope affects TKR constraint. Methods. Using a six degree of freedom testing rig, a cruciate-retaining TKR (Legion; Smith & Nephew) was tested for AP translational constraint. In both anterior and posterior directions, the tibial component was displaced until a ‘dislocation limit’ was reached (fig. 1), the point at which the force-displacement graph started to plateau (fig. 2). Compressive joint loads from 710 to 2000 N, and a range of medial-lateral (M:L) load distributions, from 70:30% to 30:70% M:L, were applied at different flexion angles with secondary motions unconstrained. The posterior slope of the tibial component was varied at 0°, 3°, 6° and 9°. Results. AP translation was significantly larger at 60° and 90° flexion (22 ± 1 mm and 24 ± 1 mm respectively) than at 0° (14 ± 1 mm), whilst increasing the compressive joint load increased the force required to translate the tibia to limits of AP constraint at all flexion angles tested. When the M:L load distribution was shifted medially, a coupled internal rotation was observed with anterior translation and external rotation with posterior translation; this was reversed with a lateral shift in load distribution. It was also found that increasing the posterior slope of the tibial tray moved the neutral position of the tibia relative to the femur more anteriorly at all flexion angles tested. The constraint under anterior drawer was then reduced with increasing slope, which meant that the tray dislocated at lower drawer force and translations. Conclusions. When intraoperative tibial bone cuts are made, surgeons should be aware that by increasing posterior slope angles the TKR may offer less anterior constraint under body-weight loads, therefore relying more heavily on surrounding soft-tissue and muscle action to prevent dislocation. The ASTM test protocol could be refined to stipulate the variation of the M:L loading distribution. It has been shown to vary between patients and activities, and the AP constraint and associated secondary motions in this study were very sensitive to this distribution. The secondary motions observed should be measured and recorded to provide more information about the device's stability characteristics. The tests could also be extended to include a higher axial load such as 2000 N, approximately three times body weight, in order to investigate coupled rotations and M:L distribution effects whilst under normal walking gait loads

Purpose. Factors influencing flexion angle of the knee before and after PS-TKA were assessed. Methods. In 368 PS-TKA cases (71 males and 297 females) by means of modified gap control technique with Stryker NRG system, multi-variance analysis was performed to assess factors influencing flexion angle before TKA and flexion angle 3 weeks after TKA. Their mean age was 74.1 years old. Operative techniques and angle of the components were included as the factors. Results. Factors that influenced the flexion angle before TKA were BMI (standard regression coefficient, −0.166), standing femoro-tibial angle (−0.140), external rotation angle of the femoral component relative to the posterior condylar line (0.220) and resurfacing the patella (−0.225). Factors that influenced the flexion angle after TKA were flexion angle before TKA (0.491), medial soft tissue releases (−0.116) and patellar lateral release (−0.130). In cases with high BMI, severe deformity and patella damage, flexion angle before TKA was smaller. In cases in that medial soft tissues release and/or patella lateral release were necessary, flexion angle after TKA was smaller. Conclusion. In cases with contractures and deformities, flexion angle before TKA was smaller and it was hard to obtain deep flexion angle after TKA

Introduction. Range of motion (ROM) is one of the important factor for better functional outcome after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). In posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) retaining (CR) TKA, adequate PCL function is suggested to be important for better kinematics and ROM. However, intraoperative assessment of PCL function is relatively subjective, thus more objective evaluation is required to improve the functional outcomes after TKA. In clinical practice, tibial posterior sagging sign is well known to indicate PCL deficiency. Hence, we hypothesized that intraoperative femorotibial antero-posterior (AP) changes at 90° of flexion indirectly reflected the PCL function and associated with postoperative maximum flexion angles in CR TKA. The purpose of this study was to investigate the correlation between intraoperative femorotibial AP changes at 90° of flexion and postoperative maximum flexion range in navigated CR TKA. Methods. Between March 2014 and March 2015, forty patients with varus osteoarthritis underwent primary TKA. All of the cases were using same types of implant (Triathlon; Stryker Orthopedics, Mahwah, NJ, USA), with an image-free navigation system (Stryker 4.0 image-free computer navigation system; Stryker). PCL was retained and cruciate substituting (CS) inserts were used in all cases. The mean age at the time of surgery was 71.7 ± 6.8 years old (ranging: 62 – 85). The mean follow-up was 10.9 ± 6.4 months. After minimum release of medial and lateral soft tissue, resection of anterior cruciate ligaments, and protection of PCL, registration and kinematic measurements were performed prior to bone resection. The kinematic measurements were performed again after implantation. The center of proximal tibial and distal femur were defined during registration. The point of proximal tibia was projected to the mechanical axis of femur and the distance between the projected point and the distal femur at 90° of flexion were measured and defined as femorotibial AP position. Distal relative to the center of distal femur indicates as minus, and proximal relative to the point indicates as plus. The correlation between the intraoperative changes of AP position and postoperative maximum flexion angles were investigated. Results. Preoperative flexion angle is 123.6 ± 13.4° on average, and postoperative flexion angle is 120.7 ± 9.4°. The intraoperative changes of AP position were −1.8 ± 3.5 mm. Although there was no correlation between postoperative maximum flexion angle and the intraoperative changes of AP position, improvement of maxmum flexion angle were negatively correlated with the intraoperative changes of AP position (R = −0.34, P < 0.05). Conclusion. The results found that intraoperative posterior movement of tibia at 90° of flexion predicts worse postoperative flexion angles in CR TKA. It is suggested that navigation systemmay be able to evaluated the PCL function indirectly and predict the postoperative flexion angles in CR TKA. Navigation might be useful tool not only for proper coronal alignment and kinematics assessment, but for evaluating the femorotibial AP position

Introduction. In the previous study regarding the relationship among maximum hip flexion, the pelvis, and the lumbar vertebrae on the sagittal plane, we have found in X-rays that the lumbo lordotic angle (LLA) and the sacral slope angle (SSA) have a large impact on hip flexion angle. We examined hip flexion angles to the various height of the objects (half round plastic tube) placed under the subject's lower back and compared the passive hip flexion angles in the supine position between younger and middle age groups. Participants. The participants were 14 healthy volunteers: 7 females with an average age of 17 years (Group 1: G-1), 7 females with an average age of 45 years (Group 2: G-2). The average BMI (Body Mass Index) of volunteers was less than 25, and their Tomas Tests were negative. Methods. The hip flexion angle was measured in six stages as half round plastic tube placed under the subject's lower back gradually increased in height by 5mm. StageZero is the Regular Position with nothing placed under the subject's lower back: RP (specified Japanese Orthopedics Association and Rehabilitation Medical Association). The next five stages (from Stage One) were performed in the Limited Position (LP) of the posterior pelvic tilt and lumbar movement by placing the tube under the subject's lower back. The height of tube is 2.2 cm. Stage One started at 2.2cm. Each Stage from Stage One has a difference in the height of 5mm. Stage Zero: 0cm, Stage 1: 2.2cm, Stage 2: 2.7cm, Stage 3: 3.2cm, Stage 4: 3.7cm, Stage 5: 4.2cm,. Analysis. We compared the hip flexion angle of six stages of the two groups. A two-way repeated measurement ANOVA was used to compare the differences in hip flexion angle of G1 and G2. Statistical significant was established at p < 0.05. Further, we took X-rays of a healthy female and examined the LLA, SSA, and Lumbo Sacral Angle (LSA) during hip maximum flexion. Results & Discussion. In RP (Stage Zero), the LLA and the SSA had a large impact on hip flexion angle observed in X-rays. In Stages1-6, there was a slight movement in the LLA and the SSA. The higher the tubes’ height, the smaller the hip flexion angle. When the height was low, the posterior pelvic tilt became large, resulting in a larger hip flexion angle. The fulcrum rotational point of the hip flexion would move to the lumbar side. We need to determine and tailor the height of object to each individual lumbar lordosis

Combined Partial Knee Arthroplasty (CPKA) is a promising alternative to Total Knee Arthroplasty (TKA) for the treatment of multi-compartment arthrosis. Through the simultaneous or staged implantation of multiple Partial Knee Arthroplasties (PKAs), CPKA aims to restore near-normal function of the knee, through retention of the anterior cruciate ligament and native disease-free compartment. Whilst PKA is well established, CPKA is comparatively novel and associated biomechanics are less well understood. Clinically, PKA and CPKA have been shown to better restore knee function compared to TKA, particularly during fast walking. The biomechanical explanation for this superiority remains unclear but may be due to better preservation of the extensor mechanism. This study sought to assess and compare extensor function after PKA, CPKA, and TKA. An instrumented knee extension rig facilitated the measurement extension moment of twenty-four cadaveric knees, which were measured in the native state and then following a sequence of arthroplasty procedures. Eight knees underwent medial Unicompartmental Knee Arthroplasty (UKA-M), followed by patellofemoral arthroplasty (PFA) thereby converting to medial Bicompartmental Knee Arthroplasty (BCA-M). In the final round of testing the PKA implants were removed a posterior-cruciate retaining TKA was implanted. The second eight received lateral equivalents (UKA-L then BCA-L) then TKA. The final eight underwent simultaneous Bi-Unicondylar Arthroplasty (Bi-UKA) before TKA. Extensor efficiencies over extension ranges typical of daily tasks were also calculated and differences between arthroplasties were assessed using repeated measures analysis of variance. For both the medial and lateral groups, UKA demonstrated the same extensor function as the native knee. BCA resulted in a small reduction in extensor moment between 70–90° flexion but, in the context of daily activity, extensor efficiency was largely unaffected and no significant reductions were found. TKA, however, resulted in significantly reduced extensor moments, leading to efficiency deficits ranging from 8% to 43% in flexion ranges associated with downhill walking and the stance phase of gait, respectively. Comparing the arthroplasties: TKA was significantly less efficient than both UKA-M and BCA-M over ranges representing stair ascent and gait; TKA showed a significant 23% reduction compared to BCA-L in the same range. There were no differences in efficiency between the UKAs and BCAs over any flexion range and TKA efficiency was consistently lower than all other arthroplasties. Bi-UKA generated the same extensor moment as native knee at flexion angles typical of fast gait (0–30°). Again, TKA displayed significantly reduced extensor moments towards full extension but returned to the normal range in deep flexion. Overall, TKA was significantly less efficient following TKA than Bi-UKA. Recipients of PKA and CPKA have superior functional outcomes compared to TKA, particularly in relation to fast walking. This in vitro study found that both UKA and CPKA better preserve extensor function compared to TKA, especially when evaluated in the context of daily functional tasks. TKA reduced knee extensor efficiency by over 40% at flexion angles associated with gait, arguably the most important activity to maintain patient satisfaction. These findings go some way to explaining functional deficiencies of TKA compared to CPKA observed clinically

Introduction. Surgeons commonly resect additional distal femur during primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA) to correct a flexion contracture to restore range of motion and knee function. However, the effect of joint line elevation on the resulting TKA kinematics including frontal plane laxity is unclear. Thus, our goal was to quantify the effect of additional distal femoral resection on passive extension and mid-flexion laxity. Methods. Six computational knee models with capsular and collateral ligament properties specific to TKA were developed and implanted with a contemporary posterior-stabilized TKA. A 10° flexion contracture was modeled by imposing capsular contracture as determined by simulating a common clinical exam of knee extension and accounting for the length and weight of each limb segment from which the models were derived (Figure 1). Distal femoral resections of 2 mm and 4 mm were simulated for each model. The knees were then extended by applying the measured knee moments to quantify the amount of knee extension. The output data were compared with a previous cadaveric study using a two-sample two-tailed t-test (p<0.05) [1]. Subsequently, varus and valgus torques of ±10 Nm were applied as the knee was flexed from 0° to 90° at the baseline, and after distal resections of 2 mm, and 4 mm. Coronal laxity, defined as the sum of varus and valgus angulation in response to the applied varus and valgus torques, was measured at 30° and 45°of flexion, and the flexion angle was identified where the increase in laxity was the greatest with respect to baseline. Results. With 2 mm and 4 mm of distal femoral resection, the knee extended an additional 4°±0.5° and 8°±0.75°, respectively (Figure 2). No significant difference was found between the extension angle predicted by the six models and the results of the cadaveric study after 2 mm (p= 0.71) and 4 mm (p= 0.47). At 2 mm resection, mean coronal laxity increased by 3.1° and 2.7° at 30° and 45°of flexion, respectively. At 4 mm resection, mean coronal laxity increased by 6.5° and 5.5° at 30° and 45° of flexion, respectively (Figures 3a and 3b). The flexion angle corresponding to the greatest increase in coronal laxity for 2 mm of distal resection occurred at 22±7° of flexion with a mean increase in laxity of 4.0° from baseline. For 4 mm distal resection, the greatest increase in coronal laxity occurred at 16±6° of flexion with a mean increase in laxity of 7.8° from baseline. Conclusion. A TKA computational model representing a knee with preoperative flexion contracture was developed and corroborated measures from a previous cadaveric study [1]. While additional distal femoral resection in primary TKA increases passive knee extension, the consequent joint line elevation induced up to 8° of additional coronal laxity in mid-flexion. This additional midflexion laxity could contribute to midflexion instability; a condition that may require TKA revision surgery. Further studies are warranted to understand the relationship between joint line elevation, midflexion laxity, and instability. For any figures or tables, please contact the authors directly

Purpose. Identifying knee osteoarthritis patient phenotypes is relevant to assessing treatment efficacy. Biomechanics have not been applied to phenotyping, yet features may be related to total knee arthroplasty (TKA) outcomes, an inherently mechanical surgery. This study aimed to identify biomechanical phenotypes among TKA candidates based on demographic and gait mechanic similarities, and compare objective gait improvements between phenotypes post-TKA. Methods. Patients scheduled for TKA underwent 3D gait analysis one-week pre (n=134) and one-year post-TKA (n=105). Principal Component Analysis was applied to frontal and sagittal knee angle and moment gait waveforms, extracting the major patterns of gait variability. Demographics (age, gender, BMI), gait speed, and frontal and sagittal pre-TKA gait angle and moment PC scores previously found to differentiate gender, osteoarthritis severity, and symptoms of TKA recipients were standardized (mean=0, SD=1). Multidimensional scaling (2D) and hierarchical clustering were applied to the feature set [134×15]. Number of clusters was assessed by silhouette coefficients, s, and stability by Adjusted Rand Indices (ARI). Clusters were validated by examining inter-cluster differences at baseline, and inter-cluster gait changes (Post. PCscore. –Pre. PCscore. , n=105) by k-way Chi-Squared, Kruskal-Wallace, ANOVA and Tukey's HSD. P-values <0.05 were considered significant. Results. Four (k=4) TKA candidate groups yielded optimum clustering metrics (s=0.37, ARI=0.57). Cluster 1 was a compact (n=7) male cluster, walking with faster gait speeds (1.20.2m/s, 3<2<1,4, P<0.001) and higher adduction moment magnitudes (PC1, 3,4<2,1, P<0.001). Cluster 1 had the most dynamic kinematic (stance-phase flexion angle range PC4, 3,4,2<1, P<0.001) and kinetic (flexion moment range PC2, 3<2<4<1, P<0.001; adduction moment range PC2, 3,2<4<1, P<0.001 and PC3, 3,2<1, P=0.001) loading/un-loading range patterns among the clusters. Cluster 1 represented a higher-functioning (less “stiff-kneed”) male subset, most resembling asymptomatic patterns. Cluster 2 was also mostly males (44/47), demonstrating adduction moment magnitudes (PC1) comparable to Cluster 1. However, Cluster 2 was older (67.07.4years, 1,4<2, P=006), walking with slower gait speeds (0.80.2m/s), and less flexion moment (PC2) and adduction moment (PC2) range; representing an older, “stiff-kneed” male subset. Cluster 3 was mostly females (32/34) with the slowest gait speeds (0.70.1m/s), the lowest overall flexion angle magnitudes (PC1, 3<2,4,1, P<0.001), stance-to-swing flexion angle (PC2, 3<2,1, P=0.004) and flexion moment range (PC2). Cluster 3 captured a slow female subset, with the “stiffest-kneed” gait among the clusters. Cluster 4 was mostly females (43/46) with faster gait speeds (1.00.1m/s) and less stiff kinematic and kinetic patterns relative to Clusters 2–3, representing a higher-functioning female phenotype. Post-TKA, higher-functioning clusters demonstrated less dynamic gait improvement (flexion angle ΔPC2, 1,4,2<3, P<0.001; flexion moment ΔPC2, 4<2,3, P=0.009; adduction moment ΔPC2, 1<3, P=0.01), with some sagittal range patterns decreasing post-operatively. Conclusions. TKA candidates were characterized by four clusters, differing by demographics and biomechanical severity features. Pre-TKA, stiff-kneed clusters (2 and 3) had less dynamic loading/un-loading kinetics. Post-TKA functional gains were cluster-specific; stiff-kneed clusters experienced more improvement, while higher-functioning clusters demonstrated some functional decline. Results suggest the presence of cohorts who may not benefit functionally from TKA. Cluster profiling may aid in triaging and developing osteoarthritis management and surgical strategies that meet individual or group-level function needs

Introduction. Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) with a computer-assisted navigation system has been developed to improve the accuracy of the alignment of osteotomies and implantations. One of the most important goals of TKA is to improve the flexion angle. Although accurate soft tissue balancing has been recognized as an essential surgical intervention influencing flexion angle, the direct relationship between post-operative flexion angle and intra-operative soft tissue balance during TKA, has little been clarified. In the present study, therefore, we focused on the relationship between them in cruciate-retaining (CR) TKA with a navigation system. Materials and methods. The subjects were 30 consecutive patients (2 men, 28 women), who underwent primary CR TKA (B. Braun Aesculap, e-motion) between May 2006 and December 2009. TKAs were performed using a image-free navigation system (OrthoPilot; B. Braun Aesculap, Tuttlingen, Germany). All cases were osteoarthritis with varus deformity. Average patient age at the time of surgery was 74.0 years (range, 62-86 years). After all bony resections and soft tissue releases were completed appropriately using a navigation system with tibia-first gap technique, a tensor was fixed to the proximal tibia and the femoral trial was fitted. Using the tensor that is designed to facilitate soft tissue balance measurements throughout the range of motion with a reduced patello-femoral (PF) joint and femoral component in place, the joint component gap and ligament balance (varus angle) were measured after the PF joint reduced and femoral component in place (Fig.1). Assessments of joint component gap and ligament balance were carried out at 0°, 30°, 60°, 90°, 120° flexion angle, which were monitored by the navigation system. Joint component gap change values during 30°- 0°, 60°- 0°, 90°- 0°, 120°- 0° flexion angle were calculated. The correlation between post operative flexion angles and pre-operative flexion angle, intra-operative joint component gaps, joint component gap change values and ligament balances were assessed using linear regression analysis. Results. Pre- and post-operative knee flexion angle averaged 120.5 ± 15.4° and 121.2 ± 8.3°. Pre-operative flexion angle was positively correlated with post-operative flexion angle (R = 0.408, P = 0.025). Average joint component gaps were 13.7, 17.1, 17.5, 16.0 and 15.3 mm at 0, 30, 60, 90 and 120° of flexion, respectively. Average ligament balances were 1.8, 1.3, -0.3, -4.2 and -4.9° in varus at 0, 30, 60, 90 and 120° of flexion, respectively. Average joint component gap changes were 3.4, 3.8, 2.4 and 1.6 mm at each range of motion between 30–0, 60-0, 90–0 and 120–0° of flexion, respectively. Joint component gap at 90° flexion (R = 0.473, P =0.008) and joint component gap change value 90–0° (R = 0.495, P =0.005) showed positive correlations with post-operative knee flexion angle (Fig.2). The other factors assessed in this study showed no correlation with post-operative knee flexion angle. Discussion. We performed an intra-operative assessment of soft tissue balance using the tensor in CR TKA with a navigation system. As previously reported, pre-operative flexion angle showed a positive correlation with post-operative flexion angle. Of note, the results showed smaller joint component gap at 90° flexion and joint gap change value 90–0° led to less flexion angle in CR TKA. Compared to posterior-stabilized TKA, CR TKA often results in tightened flexion gap. In such a situation, the results suggest that creation of relative larger flexion gap is important for acquisition of better flexion angle

Introduction. Selection of an optimum thickness of polyethylene insert in total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is important for the good stability and range of motion (ROM). The purpose of this study is to investigate the amount of change of ROM as the thickness of trial insert increase. Material and Method. The study included 86 patients with 115 knees undergoing TKA from October 2012 to February 2014. There were 17 men and 69 women with an average age of 75±8 (58–92) years. The implants posterior stabilized knee (Scorpio NRG, Stryker) was used and all prostheses were fixed with cement. The ROM was measured by the goniometer under the general anesthesia at the time of operation in increments of 1°. Preoperative flexion angle was measured by passively flexing the patient's hip 90 degrees and allowing the weight of the leg to flex the knee joint (Lee et al 1998). Extension angle was measured by holding the heel and raising the leg by another examiner. During TKA, flexion and extension angle was measured in a similar manner when each insert trial (8, 10, 12, and 15mm) was inserted. After the wound closure and removing the draping, ROM was measured again. Statistical analysis of range of motion was performed using a paired t-test to determine significance. Results. Preoperative extension angle was-11.8±7.5°and flexion angle was 125.4±14.9 °. postoperative extension angle after removing drapes was −5.0±3.4°and flexion angle was126.4±8.8°. Although extension angle was improved statistically (p<0.001), flexion angle was not improved. Intraoperative extension and flexion angle that were measured with the same thick insert trial as the polyethylene insert finally selected was −3.7±3.0°and 120.8±9.8°respectively. The thickness of polyethylene insert finally set was 8mm (28knees), 10mm (58knee), 12mm (24 knee), and 15mm (5knee). The amount of deficit in extension ROM by changing the trial inserts those were measured intraoperatively were 2.5±2.2° (n=112, 8 to 10mm, p<0.01), 3.2±2.8° (n=80, 10 to 12mm, p< 0.01), and 4.7±2.5° (n=15, 12 to 15mm, p<0.01). Flexion angle was 0.6±4.3° (8 to 10mm, n.s), 1.5±4.0° (10 to 12mm, p=0.002), 2.6±4.0° (12 to 15mm, p=0.025). Discussion. Although it is important to select a sufficient thick polyethylene insert to prevent postoperative instability, excessive thick polyethylene can decrease ROM especially extension. In many type of prosthesis, thickness of polyethylene insert differs every 2 mm is prepared. In the current study, if the thickness of polyethylene is increased 2mm (8 to10mm and 10 to 12mm) or 3mm (12 to15mm), extension and flexion angle was decreased 2.5–4.7°and 0.6–2.6°respectively

Introduction. Dual-mobility (DM) liners provide increased range of motion and stability. However, large head diameters have been associated with anterior hip pain due to impingement with surrounding soft-tissues, particularly the iliopsoas. Further, during hip extension the liner can get trapped due to anterior soft-tissue impingement that resists rotation being imparted to the liner from posterior stem-liner contact. Over time this can cause liner rim damage, leading to intra-prosthetic dislocation of the small diameter inner head. To address this, an anatomically contoured dual mobility (ACDM) liner was designed to reduce the volume of the liner below the equator that can interact with soft-tissues (Fig. 1). In this study, we utilized finite element analysis to evaluate tendon-liner contact pressure and tendon stresses with ACDM and conventional designs during hip extension, wherein the posterior edge of liner is in contact with the stem while the anterior edge is exposed to the soft-tissue. Methods. The average uniaxial stiffness (350 N/mm), and average dimensions (width × thickness = 14mm × 4mm) of 10 cadaver psoas tendon samples were determined in a separate study. The iliopsoas tendon was modelled as a Yeoh hyper-elastic material, and the material constants were tuned to match the experimental uniaxial test data. Cadaver specific FEA models were created for 5 specimens (10 hips) using computed tomography (CT) scans. The implant components were modeled as being rigid relative to the iliopsoas tendon. The iliopsoas tendon was modelled as extending from its insertion point on the lesser trochanter to the psoas notch on the pelvis for hip flexion angles of −15°, 0°, 15° and 30°. Appropriately sized DM components were implanted virtually for each specimen. Once placed in its proper position, the liner was rotated about the flexion axis until it contacted the stem posteriorly to represent its orientation during hip extension (Fig. 2). A 500N tensile load was applied to the iliopsoas tendon and the average/max stresses within the tendon, and average/max contact pressures between the tendon and liner were measured. Results. At all hip flexion angles from −15° to 30°, the tendon-liner contact pressure and tendon stresses were lower with the ACDM liners compared to the conventional liner. Contact pressure and tendon stress decreased for both liner designs with increasing hip flexion angle. At −15° flexion angle, the average contact pressure was 42.3% lower (0.36Mpa), and the maximum contact pressure was 45.1% (8.5Mpa lower), with the ACDM compared to conventional liner design. Similarly, at −15° flexion angle the average vonMises pressure in the tendon was 32.5% lower (14.8Mpa), and the maximum vonMises stress in the tendon was 55.7% (159Mpa lower) with the ACDM design. (Fig 3). Discussion. This study utilized cadaver specific FEA models to evaluate interaction between the iliopsoas tendon and conventional and ACDM liners during hip extension. The results showed a notable reduction in contact pressure and tendon stress resulting from reduced volume and more soft-tissue friendly profile of the ACDM design. Thus, the ACDM design may be able to reduce undesirable soft-tissue interaction with dual mobility liners

Identifying knee osteoarthritis (OA) patient phenotypes is relevant to assessing treatment efficacy, yet biomechanical variability has not been applied to phenotyping. This study aimed to identify demographic and gait related groups (clusters) among total knee arthroplasty (TKA) candidates, and examine inter-cluster differences in gait feature improvement post-TKA. Knee OA patients scheduled for TKA underwent three-dimensional gait analysis one-week pre and one-year post-TKA, capturing lower-limb external ground reaction forces and kinematics using a force platform and optoelectronic motion capture. Principal component analysis was applied to frontal and sagittal knee angle and moment waveforms (n=135 pre-TKA, n=106 post-TKA), resulting in a new uncorrelated dataset of subject PCscores and PC vectors, describing major modes of variability throughout one gait cycle (0–100%). Demographics (age, gender, body mass index (BMI), gait speed), and gait angle and moment PCscores were standardized and assessed for outliers. One patient exceeding Tukey's outer (3IQR) fence was removed. Two-dimensional multidimensional scaling followed by k-medoids clustering was applied to scaled demographics and pre-TKA PCscores [134×15]. Number of clusters (k=2:10) were assessed by silhouette coefficients, s, and stability by Adjusted Rand Indices (ARI) of 100 data subsets. Clusters were validated by examining inter-cluster differences at baseline, and inter-cluster gait changes (PostPCscore–PrePCscore, n=105) by k-way ANOVA and Tukey's honestly significant difference (HSD) criterion. Four (k=4) TKA candidate groups yielded optimum clustering metrics (s = 0.4, ARI=0.75). Cluster 1 was all-males (male:female=19:0) who walked with faster gait speeds (1>2,3), larger flexion angle magnitudes and stance-phase angle range (PC1 & PC4 1>2,3,4), and more flexion (PC2 1>2,3,4) and adduction moment (PC2 & PC3 1>2,3) range patterns. Cluster 1 had the most dynamic kinematics and kinetic loading/unloading range amongst the clusters, representing a higher-functioning (less “stiff”) male subset. Cluster 2 captured older (2>1,3) males (31:1) with slower gait speeds (2 4), and lower flexion angle magnitude (PC1 3 2,3) and less stiff kinematic and kinetic patterns relative to Clusters 2 and 3, representing a higher-functioning female subset. Radiographic severity did not differ between clusters (Kellgren-Lawrence Grade, p=0.9, n=102), and after removing demographics and re-clustering, gender differences remained (p < 0 .04). Pre-TKA, higher-functioning clusters (1&4) had more dynamic loading/un-loading kinetic patterns. Post-TKA, high-functioning clusters experienced less gait improvement (flexion angle PC2, 1,4 < 3, p≥0.004, flexion moment PC2, 4 < 2,3), with some sagittal range patterns decreasing postoperatively. TKA candidates can be characterized by four clusters, differing by demographics and biomechanical severity features. Post-TKA, functional gains were cluster-specific, stiff-gait clusters experienced more improvement, while higher-functioning clusters experienced less gain and showed some decline. Results suggest the presence of cohorts who may not benefit functionally from TKA. Cluster profiling may support triaging and developing targeted OA treatment strategies, meeting individual function needs

Purpose. To investigate the tibiofemoral rotational profiles during surgery in navigated posterior-stabilized (PS) total knee arthroplasty (TKA) and investigated the effect on postoperative maximum flexion angles. Materials and Methods. At first, twenty-five consecutive subjects (24 women and 1 man; age: mean, 77 years; range, 58–85 years) with varus osteoarthritis treated with navigated PS TKA (Triathlon, Stryker, Mahwah, NJ) were enrolled in this study. Kinematic parameters, including the tibiofemoral rotational angles from maximum extension to maximum flexion, were recorded thrice before and after PCL resections, and after implantation. The effect of PCL resection and component implantation on tibiofemoral rotational kinematics was statistically evaluated. Then, the effect of tibiofemoral rotational alignment changes on the postoperative maximum angles were retrospectively examined with 96 subjects (84 women, 12 men; average age, 76 years; age range, 56–88 years) who underwent primary TKA. Results. The tibiofemoral kinematics revealed a significant tibial internal rotation after PCL resection, which further increased after implantation compared with that before PCL resection (p < 0.01 and p < 0.001, respectively). Furthermore, the tibial internal rotations at 60° and 90° flexion after PCL resection and implantation were significantly increased compared with those before PCL resection (p < 0.05). The amount of tibial internal rotation from 90° flexion to maximum flexion was significantly decreased after PCL resection and implantation compared with that before PCL resection (p < 0.05). Furthermore, multi-linear regression analysis found that the internal changes of the rotational alignment was independent factor for the worse improvement of the postoperative maximum flexion angles (R2=0.078, p=0.0067). There was a positive correlation between preoperative tibial external rotational alignment and the internal changes of the postoperative rotational alignment (R2=0.172, p<0.0001), however, no correlation was found between the preoperative rotational alignment and the improvement of the maximum flexion angles. Discussion and Conclusion. The study revealed that PCL resection changed the tibial rotational alignment and decreased the amount of tibial internal rotation. The implantation of PS components further increased the internal rotational alignment and could not compensate for the tibiofemoral rotation. Finally, the internal changes of rotational alignment affected the improvement of the maximum flexion angles, suggesting that rotational alignment is one of important factors to achieve better postoperative maximum flexion angles. Although the factors which affect the rotational alignment remains unknown in this study, these results suggest that further development of PS TKA, including the surgical technique and implant design, are needed to achieve better knee kinematics, following better clinical outcomes

Introduction. Hip-Spine syndrome has various clinical aspects. For example, schoolchild with severe congenital dislocation of the hip have unfavorable standing posture and disadvantageous motions in ADL. Hip-Spine syndrome is closely related closely as the adjacent lumbar vertebrae and the hip joint. Furthermore, not only the pelvis and the lumbar spine, but also the neck position might influence on the maximum hip flexion angle. In this study, we examined the maximum hip flexion angle and pelvic movement angle by observing the lumbar spine, the pelvis and the neck in three different positions. Subjects and Methods. The participants were five healthy volunteers (three males and two females) and ranged in age from 16 to 49 years. We measured the hip flexion angle (=∠X) and the pelvic tilt angle (=∠Y), using Zebris WinData and putting the six markers on skin. The positions of the marker are Femur lateral condyle (M1), Greater trochanter (M2), Lateral margin of 10th rib (M3), Anterior superior iliac spine (M4), Superior lateral margin of Iliac (M5), and Acromion (M6). We performed maximum hip flexion three times in three positions and measured ∠X (=∠M1,2,3) and ∠Y (=∠M4,5,6) and calculated the mean and SD of each position. The first position (P1) that we investigated is the regular position specified by the Japanese Orthopedics Association and Rehabilitation Medical Association. The second position (P2) is performed in the limited position of the posterior pelvic tilt and lumbar movement, by placing the tube under the subject's lower back. The third position (P3) is the altered limited position of P2 added by placing the 500ml PET bottle filled water under the back of the subject's neck. Analysis. A two way factorial analysis of variance was used for statistical analysis to examine the difference among three different positions (P1, P2 and P3) in ∠X and ∠Y. A significance level was set at P < 0.05. We also calculated Spearman rank correlation coefficients to determine the correlation between ∠X and ∠Y. Results. There was a statistically significant difference among three different positions (P1, P2 and P3) in both ∠X and ∠Y (p < 0.01). Slight strong correlations were found between ∠X and ∠Y in three different positions. (r =0.5178571). The smallest values of ∠X and ∠Y were obtained in P1. The values of ∠X and ∠Y in P3 were all smaller than those in P2. Conclusions. The limited movement of pelvic and lumbar spine, and neck different positions give the limit to a maximum hip joint flexion angle

Introduction. A deep squat (DS) is a challenging motion at the level of the hip joint generating substantial reaction forces (HJRF). As a closed chain exercise, it has great value in rehabilitation and muscle strengthening of hip and knee. During DS, the hip flexion angle approximates the functional range of hip motion risking femoroacetabular impingement in some morphologies. In-vivo HJRF measurements have been limited to instrumented implants in a limited number of older patients performing incomplete squats (< 50° hip flexion and < 80° knee flexion). On the other hand, total hip arthroplasty is being increasingly performed in a younger and higher demanding patient population. These patients clearly have a different kinetical profile with hip and knee flexion ranges going well over 100 degrees. Since measurements of HJRF with instrumented prostheses in healthy subjects would be ethically unfeasible, this study aims to report a personalised numerical solution based on inverse dynamics to calculate realistic in-silico HJRF values during DS. Material and methods. Thirty-five healthy males (18–25 years old) were prospectively recruited for motion and morphological analysis. DS motion capture (MoCap) acquisitions and MRI scans with gait lab marker positions were obtained. The AnyBody Modelling System (v6.1.1) was used to implement a novel personalisation workflow of the AnyMoCap template model. Bone geometries, semi-automatically segmented from MRI, and corresponding markers were incorporated into the template human model by an automated procedure. A state of-the-art TLEM 2.0 dataset, included in the Anybody Managed Model Repository (v2.0), was used in the template model. The subject-specific MoCap trials were processed to compute kinematics of DS, muscle and joint reaction forces in the entire body. Resulting hip joint loads were compared with in-vivo data from OrthoLoad dataset. Additionally, hip and knee joint angles were computed. Results. An average HJRF of 274%BW (251.5 – 297.9%BW; 95% confidence interval) was calculated at the peak of DS. The HJRF on the pelvis was directed superior, medial and posterior throughout the DS. Peak knee and hip flexion angles were 112° (108.1° – 116.5°) and 107° (104.6° – 109.4°) on average. Discussion and conclusions. A comprehensive approach to construct an accurate personalised musculoskeletal model from subject-specific MoCap data, bone geometries, and palpatory landmarks was presented. Consistently higher HJR forces during DS in young adults were demonstrated as opposed to the Orthoload dataset. Similarly, knee and hip flexion angles were much higher, which could cause the increase in HJRF. It can be concluded that DS kinetics in young adults differ from the typical total hip arthroplasty population. These models will enable further in-silico joint biomechanics studies, and could serve the purpose of a virtual test bed for implant design

The presence of hip osteoarthritis is associated with abnormal spinopelvic characteristics. This study aims to determine whether the pre-operative, pathological spinopelvic characteristics “normalize” at 1-year post-THA. This is a prospective, longitudinal, case-control matched cohort study. Forty-seven patients underwent pre- and post- (at one-year) THA assessments. This group was matched (age, sex, BMI) with 47 controls/volunteers with well-functioning hips. All participants underwent clinical and radiographic assessments including lateral radiographs in standing, upright-seated and deep-flexed-seated positions. Spinopelvic characteristics included change in lumbar lordosis (ΔLL), pelvic tilt (ΔPT) and hip flexion (pelvic-femoral angle, ΔPFA) when moving from the standing to each of the seated positions. Spinopelvic hypermobility was defined as ΔPT>30° between standing and upright-seated positions. Pre-THA, patients illustrated less hip flexion (ΔPFA −54.8°±17.1° vs. −68.5°± 9.5°, p<0.001), greater pelvic tilt (ΔPT 22.0°±13.5° vs. 12.7°±8.1°, p<0.001) and greater lumbar movements (ΔLL −22.7°±15.5° vs. −15.4°±10.9°, p=0.015) transitioning from standing to upright-seated. Post-THA, these differences were no longer present (ΔPFApost −65.8°±12.5°, p=0.256; ΔPTpost 14.3°±9.5°, p=0.429; ΔLLpost −15.3°±10.6°, p=0.966). The higher prevalence of pre-operative spinopelvic hypermobility in patients compared to controls (21.3% vs. 0.0%; p=0.009), was not longer present post-THA (6.4% vs. 0.0%; p=0.194). Similar results were found moving from standing to deep-seated position post-THA. Pre-operative, spinopelvic characteristics that contribute to abnormal mechanics can normalize post-THA following improvement in hip flexion. This leads to patients having the expected hip-, pelvic- and spinal flexion as per demographically-matched controls, thus potentially eliminating abnormal mechanics that contribute to the development/exacerbation of hip-spine syndrome